LePage signs law allowing electricians to supervise two apprentices

AUGUSTA, Maine — Gov. Paul LePage has signed into law a bill that will allow licensed electricians to supervise two apprentices or helpers at a time instead of one.

The law, which was heavily debated in the Legislature before it was enacted, is intended to attract more young Mainers into careers as electricians. The apprentices must have completed or be enrolled in an accredited training program.

The new law, which was signed last Thursday, also removes $96 fees required for students to get helper’s licenses when enrolled in a high school or college electrical program. The fees were seen as a deterrent for students who wanted to explore the field before making a commitment.

LePage said he introduced the bill as a way to offer young people more opportunities in the trades.